Congratulations to Jon Franko, our October Member of the Month! Jon is undoubtedly one of the nicest humans you will ever meet, with an uplifting energy and positive attitude that is felt in every class he attends. He’s been a member since this past July and participates in all class offerings at different times of day, so make sure to say hi when you see him next! We’re beyond thrilled with the dedication and successes he’s already achieved. Congratulations, Jon!

Here’s more about Jon:

1. How long have you been a member at Loco?

Started my foundations classes in mid July 2022.

2. What is your favorite thing about being a Loco athlete?

I enjoy the group classes and connecting with people of similar dedication to physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle.

3. What group fitness offerings do you typically participate in at Loco? Do you have a favorite? Discuss.

I typically bounce between Bootcamp and Crossfit classes all week but will be including more yoga at least once a week if the classes are convenient due to my schedule.

4. How would you describe the community at Loco?

My experience has been wonderful so far and enjoy the camaraderie with other LocoFit members, the coaches have been encouraging while challenging me to test my limits, the in-house nutritionist, Kayla, has been extremely helpful guiding my food intake prep and recovery meals, and in general, I dig the overall positive vibe and atmosphere of the gym.

5. What advice do you have for someone who is intimidated by group fitness?

In my experience, with a lifetime of playing sports and somewhat of a fitness junky, people who are uncomfortable with group fitness would frankly benefit so much from group fitness!  I understand it’s a challenge and very uncomfortable for many people; however, one of my favorite quotes is: 

“It’s only after you’ve stepped out of your comfort zone that you begin to change, grow and transform.” Roy T. Bennett – The Light in the Heart.  

Of course, this also applies to even more than just physical fitness and it’s a learned and practiced skill to be uncomfortable but you’ll never regret it.   If you continue to step so far outside your comfort zone that you forget how to get back, then that’s a beautiful thing!!!

6. Favorite music to sweat to?

I’m pretty easy and actually enjoy the playlists at the gym…but to be more specific, I’m probably older than most people so I’m a product of the 70’s and 80’s so tend to enjoy music from these eras but as long as some music is playing I’m good.  No music sucks for me…silence is stressful…lol.

7. Favorite movement/workout?

Honestly, I’m taking it all in right now and enjoying the wonderful variation of exercises between Bootcamp and Crossfit.  Although I’ve been engaging in all types of sports throughout my life, I’m new to Crossfit and stepping outside my comfort zone (wink, wink).  For several years now I’ve been involved and participating in triathlons but the endurance training also breaks down quite a bit of muscle so always trying to find a balance to keep my body in peak performance shape as I get older.

8. Is there a member of the LocoFam that inspires and motivates you to be better? Feel free to give them a shoutout! 

Yes for sure!  Due my schedule, I’ve only been able to attend various classes with Katie, Bryan, Stephen and Jess Coker but all have been so cool, supportive and knowledgeable to help me adjust to the workouts.  I appreciate Kayla’s guidance in terms of nutrition and she’s provided good ideas to assist me with a better performing diet.  Sam & Kassie have also been spot on with their communication whether it be live or on text.  Jay has also been very helpful and appreciate his vision/passion for his vision/mission for LocoFit.  I look forward to engaging with Jess Johnson and Jamo at some point as it suits my schedule and thanks to Mike for his programming selections…it’s certainly challenged me for sure!

9. Favorite post-workout meal?

Protein drink for sure to replenish me quickly and depending on my schedule I will eat almost anything!  Likely more protein with maybe some left over from a night before, chicken, veggies, rice or some chicken salad, anything with peanut butter and some fruit to spike my sugar after a workout.  It really depends but try to fuel with whole foods and as healthy as possible to feed my body good stuff so not to ruin my efforts of training.

10. What fitness-related goals do you have for 2022?

Continue to add more lean muscle to balance the endurance training throughout the year.

11. Describe your athletic abilities in five words or less.

Can’t hit a moving target!

12. Give us your background story – Try to be brief (you can talk about anything from education to career, to pets, to family, to hobbies, etc).

Jon lives in Park Circle and a licensed Realtor currently with The Boulevard Company, and Co-Founder of the Luminate Real Estate Team.

He also volunteers and participates with multiple non-profits, local schools & organizations in the community including the Summerville Dream Board of Directors; Leadership Dorchester Alumni and Advisory Board; One of the founders of Bike/Walk Summerville; Summerville YMCA & Blue Sky Triathlon Clubs; Member of the Charleston Running Club, Fleet Feet and Park Circle Pacer Running Clubs.  He’s an avid financial supporter of local running races, SheTris and Tri-It-For-Life all-women triathlon sponsorship supporter as well as other various events and volunteer activities in the Low Country throughout the year.

And in his spare time, he really enjoys spending time with his wife of 30 years, Michelle, and their son, Jay, who recently graduated Clemson University with a degree in Computer Engineering and employed locally in the Charleston area.  In addition, he finds time to engage in many forms of recreation & physical fitness, including the desire to compete, volunteer and participate in many local community events, running races & triathlons, as well as, writing about himself in the third person.